Dogs and cats cool themselves far less efficiently than people. They sweat only a little, through their paw pads, and rely mainly on panting. On a hot, humid day that is not enough, and body temperature can climb to dangerous levels quickly.
Who is most at risk
- Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Persian cats and Shih Tzus, whose short airways make panting less effective
- Puppies, kittens and senior pets
- Overweight pets and those with heart or breathing problems
- Thick-coated breeds and dark-coated animals in direct sun
- Very active dogs that keep playing or running even when they are overheating
Never leave a pet in a parked car
The inside of a parked car heats up far faster than the air outside, even on a mild day and even with the windows cracked open. Within minutes it can become hot enough to cause heatstroke. There is no safe amount of time to leave a pet in a car on a warm day.
Everyday prevention
- Walk early or late. Avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Check the pavement. Put the back of your hand on the asphalt for 7 seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for paws. Sand, artificial turf and metal surfaces can also burn.
- Provide shade and water at all times, indoors and outdoors. Bring water on walks.
- Keep indoor spaces cool. Use fans or air conditioning, and close curtains on sunny windows. Make sure pets can move to a cooler spot.
- Shorten exercise on hot days and swap long runs for sniffing games or indoor play.
- Do not shave double-coated breeds without advice from a groomer or vet; their coat helps protect them from sun. Regular brushing to remove loose undercoat helps more.
Recognizing heatstroke
Heatstroke is an emergency. Early signs include:
- Heavy panting that does not settle with rest
- Thick drool, bright red or pale gums
- Restlessness, or seeking out cool floors
- Weakness, stumbling or reluctance to move
Later and more serious signs include vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes with blood), confusion, collapse and seizures. Cats rarely pant; a panting cat should always be taken seriously.
What to do right away
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned place.
- Start cooling. Wet the body with cool, not ice-cold, water, and place it in front of a fan. Very cold water or ice can make blood vessels in the skin narrow and slow cooling.
- Offer small amounts of water if your pet is alert and able to drink. Do not force water.
- Go to a veterinarian immediately, continuing to cool on the way. Heatstroke can damage internal organs even when a pet seems to recover, so a veterinary check is essential.
Other summer hazards
- Sunburn on pale or thinly haired skin such as noses and ear tips
- Water safety: not all dogs can swim; use a canine life jacket on boats
- Barbecues and picnics: skewers, corn cobs, bones and onion-heavy foods
- Insect stings: swelling of the face or breathing difficulty needs urgent care
This guide is general information and not a substitute for veterinary advice.